Saffron Crocus — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Crocus sativus |
|---|---|
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 365–548 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 10.2–15.2 |
| Mature height (cm) | 7.6–15.2 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 7.6–10.2 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 6–10 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low |
| Sowing method | Bulb |
Growing directions
Plant corms (not seeds) 3–4 in deep in sharply drained, alkaline to neutral soil in full sun during late summer to early autumn; good drainage is critical as corms rot quickly in waterlogged soil. Each corm produces lilac-purple flowers in autumn of the first year; within each flower are three vivid red stigmas — these are saffron. Harvest the flowers as soon as they open in the morning and carefully pluck the three red stigmas from each blossom, drying immediately on a warm screen or in a low oven. Corms multiply each year; lift and divide every 3–4 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain flowering vigor.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0